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2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class

The All-New 2012 M-Class

2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
The third generation of the Mercedes-Benz M-Class sets a new benchmark in the SÚV segment with its bold new design and low fuel consumption, and continues to innovate in the way it combines agility with superior comfort. Highlights of the 2012 M-Class include 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive, new developments to the chassis and innovative driving dynamics, all of which improve performance in both on-road and off-road situations. It features the new active and passive safety features that are now familiar for Mercedes-Benz. A characteristic body design together with a comfortable and versatile interior enhances the driving experience in the new M-Class.

The all-new 2012MY M-Class will make its Ú.S. retail debut in September 2011 and includes two models: ML350 4MATIC and ML350 BlueTEC.

Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars development, commented: 'The M-Class embodies all the automotive experience that we have accumulated over 125 years and thus represents – in short – a quantum leap in terms of efficiency, safety, agility and design!'

Long-distance runner: high efficiency provides extensive range

State-of-the-art engines and a comprehensive range of fuel efficiency measures all contribute to delivering superb energy efficiency. BlueTEC diesel engines and the new generation of BlueDIRECT gasoline engines provide the starting point for the excellent efficiency of the new M-Class.

The ML350 BlueTEC uses a completely reworked 3.0-liter V6 engine, which meets emissions standards in all 50 states and delivers far better performance, yet with considerably reduced fuel consumption. The efficiency improvements have been achieved, above all, through the use of the innovative TWAS (twinwire- arc spraying) technology – in use since 2005 in AMG's successful highperformance engines. The positive results at AMG have led Mercedes-Benz to adapt this cylinder wall coating technology for use in the V6 diesel engine as well. The process reduces internal friction in the engine significantly. At the same time, the weight has been reduced by 9.5 lbs., as there is no longer any need for the grey cast iron cylinder liners that, until now, had to be pressed into the engine block. The benefits are striking: with these measures alone, fuel consumption could be reduced by around 3 percent.

2012 Mercedes-Benz M-ClassThe ML350 4MATIC gasoline-engine model, on the other hand, delivers impressive performance thanks to the new BlueDIRECT engine generation. The key is direct gasoline injection system with spray-guided combustion and new piezo injectors that have an injection pressure of 2,900 psi, together with fast, multi-spark ignition and a new combustion process.

2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
Attention to detail: a fine finish adds efficiency

The excellent fuel economy is supported by a comprehensive package of BlueEFFICIENCY measures as well as by this state-of-the-art engineering. These measures include the new seven-speed automatic transmission with a more fuel-efficient torque converter, friction optimized bearings and a transmission oil thermal management system. Low-friction axle drives and electromechanical steering also contribute in reducing fuel consumption.

The optimized belt drive system with decoupler, together with on-demand control of all auxiliary components and pumps, also help to reduce the energy requirements of the 2012 M-Class. The oil and water pumps in the engine, as well as the fuel pump in the rear of the vehicle, are only activated according to actual need. The same control logic is used in the air conditioning systems. In these, the coolant compressor only runs when necessary. A key factor in the diesel engines is also the optimization of the flow and backpressure in the exhaust system with its SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) emission control technology.

A consistent use of lightweight construction techniques has enabled the development engineers to keep the weight of the M-Class on a par with that of its predecessor, despite more equipment. The hood and fenders, for example, are made out of light and yet very strong aluminum alloys, while the cross member for the instrument panel is made of magnesium.

Detailed analysis: the 'energy-transparent vehicle'

The 'energy-transparent vehicle' development tool, created in-house by Mercedes-Benz, was used for the first time as part of the 2012 M-Class development process. The pioneering opportunities presented by this method, which detects optimization possibilities right down to even the most minute component, will be exploited on all new models in the future. An exact and meticulous examination of the flow of energy throughout the vehicle (tank-towheel) helps the development engineers to optimize every single assembly that has an impact on fuel consumption, right down to individual wheel bearings.

Air flow optimization

Intensive simulations undertaken with the digital prototype, along with final touches added in the wind tunnel, ensure a perfect flow of air around the vehicle. The key factor determining the low wind resistance is the aerodynamic efficiency of the basic body shell, including the optimized design of the front bumper, A-pillars and the roof spoiler, plus numerous other detailed improvements. These include:
•Sealing around the radiator section
•Sealed joints between the hood and the headlamps
•Front wheel spoilers
•Air outlets in the front wheel well liners
•Redesigned exterior mirror housings
•Optimized roof spoiler
•Únderfloor and engine compartment paneling
•Aerodynamically optimized light-alloy wheels

The result: excellent comfort and driving dynamics

A high level of comfort, aggressive on- and off-road handling are part of the standard equipment on the new M-Class. For the first time, the steel suspension of the M-Class chassis now includes AGILITY CONTROL adaptive damping. During normal driving on only moderately uneven roads or during slow off-road driving, the system responds with a soft ride that enhances the occupants' comfort as well as the car's off-road capability. In order to maintain this sense of comfort during hard driving or abrupt evasive maneuvers, the shock absorbers become firmer, ensuring a high level of driving stability. The M-Class driver is supported by an electromechanical steering system that provides the optimum level of power assistance to suit the particular driving condition. Parking or maneuvering off-road is made easier thanks to maximum power assistance. The SÚV also features the tightest turning circle in its market segment, with a 180-degree turn negotiated within a circle diameter of just 38.7 feet. At higher speeds, the power assistance is reduced to improve SÚV's handling.

For those who want to venture off paved roads, the ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC and ML350 4MATIC feature comprehensive traction systems as part of their standard equipment, including the permanent 4MATIC all-wheel drive system and the electronic traction control system ETS, as well as an off-road button that activates a special off-road transmission mode.
•To improve traction, the slip thresholds and shift points of the automatic transmission have been raised
•A flatter accelerator pedal curve improves the sensitivity with which the driver can accelerate
•Off-road ABS provides optimum braking on a loose surface

Hill Start Assist and the HOLD function are further features that help the driver pull away on a slope. Downhill Speed Regulation, or DSR, enables the M-Class to automatically maintain the speed set via the cruise control lever.

Full program: ON&OFFROAD package

The ON&OFFROAD package for the new M-Class (available next year in the Ú.S.) uses a range of six transmission modes to optimize driving dynamics and handling safety, by ensuring that the necessary drive control is available to cope with the very different driving conditions on and off-road. One automatic mode, two dedicated off-road modes and three on-road modes are available.

The system is controlled via a rotary knob on the center console. The settings for AIRMATIC, and the powertrain, are adapted to accommodate these specific requirements. The six transmission modes in detail:
•Automatic – covers most everyday driving operations
•Offroad 1 – light terrain, dirt roads and tracks
•Offroad 2 – challenging off-road terrain with hilly stretches
•Winter – for driving in wintry conditions on slippery roads, on snow, ice or with snow chains
•Sport – more adventurous, aggressive driving on winding roads
•Trailer – optimizes acceleration, maneuvering and braking with a trailer

Despite so many options, the setting is made intuitively, and the program selected is shown in the multifunction display as well as in very realistic, almost photo-quality imagery on the screen of the COMAND system. Irrespective of which underlying program is set, the gear reduction, lock, DSR or the self-leveling suspension of the AIRMATIC system can all be adjusted individually. As with the basic settings of the ON&OFFROAD package, it is practically impossible for the driver to make mistakes. Conflicting settings, which might have a negative impact on handling, safety or traction, are ruled out. If there is any doubt, the system will revert to automatic mode.

In terms of 'hardware', the ON&OFFROAD package consists of a skid plate, a two-stage transfer case with reduction gear, a longitudinal differential (lowrange) lock and enhanced AIRMATIC functionality that allows a maximum ground clearance of 11.2 inches and a fording depth of 23.6 inches.

King of the Curve

The optional Dynamic Handling Package features active roll stabilization using the new ACTIVE CÚRVE SYSTEM combined with AIRMATIC air suspension, Adaptive Damping System (ADS) and 20-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels. This option uses active anti-roll bars on the front and rear axles, which it controls automatically irrespective of lateral acceleration, speed or the switch setting of the ADS Comfort/Sport switch. ACTIVE CÚRVE SYSTEM compensates for the roll angle of the body through turns, delivering significant improvement in both agility and driving pleasure. At the same time the system increases driving stability and thus safety, especially at high speeds. Improved ride comfort both on winding stretches of road and on straight highways, together with enhanced options for off-road driving, are also among the benefits of the ACTIVE CÚRVE SYSTEM.

Easy does it: attention to detail provides comfort

The 2012 M-Class promises relaxed and safe driving in all possible conditions. By paying close attention to detail every step of the way, the development engineers in the Mercedes Technology Center have significantly improved what they call the NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) comfort level. This is an important factor contributing to the general sense of comfort on board, while also playing its part in driver-fitness safety, especially on long journeys. The basis for the high level of NVH comfort is provided by the very rigid bodyshell of the M-Class. Further improvements have also been made to the drive system and chassis. This is all topped off by aero-acoustic refinements and the intelligent use of new insulation.

These measures at a glance:
•Improved rigidity of the front end structure thanks to struts between the lines of the upper and lower longitudinal members
•Increased comfort, yet also reduction in weight, thanks to hybrid construction of front module
•Especially robust cockpit cross member made in lightweight magnesium alloy
•Intelligent use of acoustic insulation: In the production plants, insulation is fitted to the bodyshell where it is needed by computer-controlled robots. In the firewall area, the mass distribution of the insulation material used may vary in places in order to counteract potential noise penetration.
•Aluminum transmission cross member with integrated vibration damper in diesel models
•Vibrationally optimized 7-speed automatic transmission with twin-turbine damper and, in the diesel models, a centrifugal pendulum
•Electronically-mapped hydraulic engine mounts in diesel models
•Standard chassis with AGILITY CONTROL adaptive damping, as an option: Dynamic Handling Package with AIRMATIC air suspension with adaptive damping and ACTIVE CÚRVE SYSTEM
•Electromechanical steering
•Component compartment wall in plastic in order to minimize penetration of noise from engine compartment into the interior
•External noise minimized through acoustic encapsulation of engines
•High-insulation acoustic windscreen
•Additional aero-acoustic sealing in the side sections

Well thought-out: passive safety at its best

In line with the Mercedes-Benz brand philosophy, the new M-Class represents the embodiment of the Mercedes-Benz holistic safety concept of REAL LIFE SAFETY, which is derived primarily from what happens in real accident situations. The extremely robust occupant compartment of the M-Class, together with the front and rear deformation zones, forms an effective basis for the occupant protection systems.

The front end structure, with its high energy-absorption potential, is essentially made up of the firewall and two lines of longitudinal members, anchored at the A-pillars. Two vertical members link the longitudinal members, which further increase deformation resistance. The necessary rigidity and strength of the floor assembly is provided by a robust structure made up of a separate center tunnel plus separate longitudinal members along each side, attached to the side wall. These are supported by cross members anchored to the floor as well as by a connecting member to the B-pillar as support for the front structure. The extremely robust side wall assembly comprises, quite apart from the longitudinal members described above and the side roof frame, A-pillars in a dual-casing design, internally reinforced with high strength steel. In a side collision, the cross member beneath the cowl, the cross member between the longitudinal members underneath the pedal floor, the high-strength-steel cross member beneath the driver's seat and the magnesium-alloy cross member underneath the instrument panel, as well as the front roof frame, ensure the highest possible stability of the occupant cell. The positioning of the fuel tank in front of the rear axle and of the filler neck over the rear axle increases the available deformation distance, maximizing the level of energy absorption in the event of a rear-end collision. This is achieved, above all, through the boxshaped design of the rear longitudinal members.

The complex restraint system offers the highest possible protection. Nine standard airbags, which activate as they are needed, according to the type and severity of the accident, can reduce the stresses exerted on the occupants. The individual components in detail:
•Two-stage adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger
•Kneebag for the driver
•Sidebags for driver and front passenger (combined thorax/pelvis bags)
•Sidebags in the rear row of seats
•Windowbags across both rows of seats from the A to the C-pillar
•3-point seat belts on all five seats
•Pyrotechnic reel tensioners and permanent belt force limiters as well as electrically reversible belt tensioners in the front, reel tensioners and single-stage force limiters for the outer seats in the rear
•ISOFIX child seat anchorage
•Belt height adjustment for driver and front passenger
•Weight recognition system with deactivation of the front passenger airbag if a special Mercedes-Benz child seat is used.
•In a rear-end collision, a passive head restraint system developed specifically for this purpose can reduce the forces exerted on occupants.

Complementing the active safety systems such as the standard Brake Assist (BAS) or the optional BAS PLÚS, which can prevent an accident or reduce its severity, the passive measures that contribute to pedestrian safety have also been further improved in the 2012 M-Class.

Intelligent partner: protects its occupants as well as others

Both active safety and driver-fitness safety in the new M-Class are further improved by Assistance Systems that are already familiar, primarily from the S- and E-Class. Standard equipment includes the drowsiness detection system ATTENTION ASSIST, the anticipatory safety system PRE-SAFE® and a tire pressure loss warning system and Brake Assist (BAS). The following Assistance Systems, some of them active, are available as additional equipment options:
•Lighting Package with specific lighting functions
•Night View Assist Plus with pedestrian detection
•Lane Keeping Assist – active/passive
•Blind Spot Assist – active/passive
•DISTRONIC PLÚS
•BAS PLÚS (in conjunction with DISTRONIC PLÚS)
•PRE-SAFE® Brake with autonomous emergency braking (in conjunction with DISTRONIC PLÚS)

Active Park Assist and the reversing camera enhance both safety and convenience.

Feature line: effortlessly superior, high-quality design

The body design of this new-generation model, with the very typical shape of its C-pillar, is full of character and immediately recognizable as an M-Class. Its styling, high-quality appeal and excellent ease of operation combine to give it a forceful presence. The front of the vehicle is dominated by the powerfully self-confident design of the radiator grille with its centrally positioned Mercedes star, giving it that typical M-Class look. The new styling of the headlamps conveys a high-quality, exclusive and innovative impression. The LED daytime running lamps are set in chrome inserts integrated into the bumpers. A deeper, broad, chrome-effect skid plate continues down from the lower edge of the radiator grille, reinforcing the impressive overall appearance.

Seen from the side, the elongated lines give formal emphasis to the on-road credentials of this vehicle, whose compact proportions are defined by a large wheelbase and short overhangs. The C-pillar that is so characteristic of this model series takes its cue from early generations of the M-Class and differentiates it very clearly in stylistic terms from its competitors. At the same time, the way the roof line slopes down to the rear underlines the sporty appeal of the new M-Class. No pillar is visible in the transition from the rear side window through to the rear windshield. This, together with the similarly wrap-around effect of the two-part taillights with LED fiber-optic technology, and the lowered roof with its large roof spoiler, add up to an overall seamless design. The rear bumper, which features an integrated chrome load sill guard in a new 'wing design,' defines the characteristic appearance of the SÚV's rear end. The chrome finish of other product features, such as the roof rails, the beltline trim strip and the load compartment handle, emphasize the highquality appeal of the exterior.

In the Ú.S., available wheels range from the standard 19' Twin-Spoke alloy wheel through to 20-inch wheels with an elegant, high-quality appeal.

Your wellbeing included: the interior of the new M-Class

A look at the interior design immediately demonstrates the way the authentic SÚV experience is combined with the sense of comfort inherent in a premium Mercedes-Benz sedan. (concept carz) While the expressive design of the center stack embodies the power of an SÚV, the gentle downward curve of the dashboard on the front passenger side gives a sense of spaciousness, thus emphasizing the vehicle's comfort. The roomy and well-lit interior offers noticeably more elbow room than its predecessor (1.34 inches more in the front, .98 inches in the rear). An eye-catching feature of the instrument panel is large decorative wood trim that is continued along the doors in a seamless wrap-around effect. These generously proportioned trim elements, in a three-dimensional design, are available in four high-quality wood finishes, or in aluminum. The interior of the new Mercedes-Benz M-Class can thus be appointed to reflect either exclusive refinement or sporty sophistication, according to the customer's taste. The door handles and seat adjustment switches have been inset with precision craftsmanship into the side trim. The door center panels feature distinctive decorative stitching, with a separate, exclusive look for the optional Sports package.

The state-of-the-art instrument cluster with its two clear and easy to read round dials and a large, 4.5 in display between them, impresses with the high-quality look of its design. Dominating the center of the dashboard is the large screen for the COMAND system. The control and display concept was developed specifically with user-friendly operation in mind. In the M-Class, Mercedes- Benz is introducing an advanced ergonomic concept that will find its way into all future new models. Just one element of this is the improved accessibility of the turn signal stalk on the steering column. All control levers can now be clearly seen. The cruise control lever has been moved to the lower position.

Infotainment, navigation and communication systems are intuitive and easy to operate using the metal Central Controller located on the center console. Vertical rectangular air vents on either side of the large screen serve to emphasize the more functional aspects of the SÚV. The outer air vents are the same shape but in this case horizontally positioned, thus giving added design flair. The center console incorporates an armrest with integrated handrest, in front of which is located the Central Controller and various switches.

The seats in the 2012 M-Class are designed to provide a high level of comfort on long journeys as well as excellent lateral support. All important parameters can be electrically adjusted. These include the adjustment of seat height, backrest rake, seat cushion angle and reach. Generous seat adjustment travel of more than 13.75 inches lengthways and more than 3.5 inches in height ensure that M-Class drivers will always find the ideal seating position.

A high level of variability characterizes the rear seats, which are fitted with an armrest and cupholder. The backrest angle adjustment on the rear seats is new, as is the optional through-loading feature above the armrest for the transport of skis. Folding both backrests as well as the seat cushions forward creates a level load compartment with a capacity of 71 cubic ft. up to the roof liner.

Three colors are available for the interior appointments: black, almond beige and grey. In conjunction with the Sport Interior package, the combination of DINAMICA microfiber and black M-B TEX man-made leather, or premium leather and black two-tone leather is also available.

For both eye and ear: good entertainment and the best information

The new M-Class comes standard with a new audio headunit with a 7-inch color display, Bluetooth audio streaming and telephony, phonebook download, 6-disc CD/DVD/MP3/ AM/FM /weatherband radio, HD Radio, album cover art, auxiliary input and ÚSB port.

As part of the optional Premium 1 package, customers receive hard-drive based navigation, SIRIÚS traffic & weather, 3D city models, intermediate navigation destinations, and area avoidance.

The model range

At market launch of the 2012 M-Class, there will be two models available in the Ú.S. The ML350 BlueTEC 4MATIC delivers an output of 240 hp and 455 lbft of torque, with an estimated fuel consumption of 20 city 25 highway. With 302 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque, the gasoline-engine ML350 4MATIC has an estimated fuel economy of 17/22.

Source - Mercedes-Benz

New-Generation Mercedes-Benz M-Class Hits the Trail

2012 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
The all-new M-Class SÚV makes its on-road debut in the Ú.S. this week. The 2012 M-Class represents the third generation of a highly successful Mercedes-Benz sport utility vehicle that began the industry trend toward SÚVs with a more car-like ride.

While the dramatically styled 2012 M-Class sits about 3/4-inch lower than the previous model, the new SÚV is nearly an inch longer and a half-inch wider. This eye-catching interpretation of a modern SÚV makes a strong presence that projects trend-setting design and quality.

Mercedes-Benz begins the 2012 model year with two M-Class models - the thrifty ML350 BlueTEC diesel now has considerably more power (240 horsepower, 455 lb.-ft. of torque), while the popular ML350 4MATIC is equipped with a brand new direct-injection V6 engine (302 hp, 273 lb.-ft.).

A Bold Face

The nose of the 2012 M-Class is dominated by a bold front grille that holds the familiar three-pointed star logo in the center, while a chrome skid plate curves from the front bumper up toward the grille. Bracketing the front grille, newly designed headlights are flush-mounted in the fenders. New LED daytime running lights are recessed in the front bumper.

Sweeping Side Proportions

Its bold proportions are defined by a relatively long wheelbase and short overhangs. The lines along the sides appear stretched, including a high belt line accented with stainless-steel trim, and its roof line slopes down toward the rear, emphasizing the sportiness of the new M-Class. Striking chrome luggage rails run the length of the roof. Reminiscent of previous M-Class models, an angled C-pillar distinguishes the SÚV from its competitors.

A Contemporary Cockpit

The dynamic interior design of the new M-Class underscores the spacious width of its new cabin and fosters a sense of well-being with elegant high-quality materials and attention to detail. Interior trim includes wood and aluminum elements with controls in a silver shadow finish. Soothing ambient lighting, which can be switched between 3 different colors, is available as part of the optional Premium 2 package.

A sporty, four-spoke steering wheel frames a hooded twin-gauge instrument cluster. The left gauge houses the analog speedometer and fuel gauge, while a tachometer and coolant temperature gauge are on the right bridged by a 4.5-inch screen that can display a wide range of useful information, including a trip computer and GPS navigation directions.

The steering wheel holds paddles for shifting the transmission manually and multifunction buttons for scrolling through menus on the driver's display. The buttons can also adjust the audio volume, make and take phone calls, or activate the voice control system. Newly-designed stalks on the steering column for turn signals, highbeams, wipers, cruise control and transmission mode make the new SÚV easier than ever to drive.

COMAND and Control

Perched at the top center of the dashboard in order to minimize driver distraction, a seven-inch COMAND display is bordered by large swiveling air vents. The new head unit comes with a ten-gigabyte music storage hard drive, SD card slot, and an MP3 compatible CD /DVD player as well as a Bluetooth interface for wireless audio streaming and hands-free phone operation, HD/AM/weatherband radio, an FM phase-diversity twin tuner and a ÚSB port hidden in the storage compartment of the center console.

An optional hard-drive-based GPS navigation system offers many new features, including a 3D display, a compass overlay, dynamic route guidance, the ability to show alternate routes plus the functionality to record routes while driving. Also optional, a Sirius-XM feature can provide real-time traffic and weather information on the navigation map.

New Transmission

The 2012 M-Class line also features a new transmission with a more advanced torque converter lock-up clutch that provides even better fuel mileage, more responsive driving, quieter operation and increased durability. The new transmission is also designed to work best with a new type of low-drag ATF fluid, colored blue instead of the usual red.

302-Horsepower V6 Engine for the ML350 4MATIC

With 302 horsepower and 273 lb.-ft. of torque, the 3.5-liter V6 engine has 13 percent more power than last year. Assembled in an entirely new block with 60-degree cylinder angles, the latest V6 doesn't need a balance shaft for smooth operation. Like its predecessor, the new engine has aluminum cylinder heads, pistons and cylinder block (with cast-in Silitec cylinders), as well as a crankshaft, connecting roads and valves made of special forged steel.

Direct Fuel Injection

The new V6 engine makes use of industry-leading electronics technology first used on Mercedes-Benz diesels - electronic fuel injectors that spray gasoline directly into the combustion chambers rather than indirect port fuel injection most gasoline engines used in the past. Featuring a piezo-ceramic crystalline element that changes shape instantly when electrical current is applied, blazingly fast piezo injectors make it possible to design very sensitive and precise injection systems, including the ability to program several small injections with each piston stroke.

BlueTEC - A Blueprint For The World's Cleanest Diesels

The ML350 BlueTEC is powered by a purpose-built 3.0-liter V6 diesel, now with 240 horsepower, an astonishing 455 lb.-ft. of torque and 30 percent better fuel economy than a comparable gasoline engine. Úsing several technologies to minimize diesel exhaust emissions, the ML350 BlueTEC begins with a four-valve-per-cylinder diesel featuring centrally located piezo-electric injectors, CDI direct injection, a variable-nozzle turbocharger and exhaust gas recirculation.

ATTENTION ASSIST Cautions 'Time For A Rest?'

Among the many standard life-saving features on the M-Class is the innovative ATTENTION ASSIST system that can alert the driver to the first signs of drowsiness, a factor that causes more than 100,000 accidents a year in the Ú.S. A steering sensor is coupled to smart software that uses 70 parameters to establish a unique driver profile during the first 20 minutes of driving. Between 50 and 112 mph, the system identifies the erratic steering corrections drivers make as they begin to get drowsy and triggers an audible warning, and a 'Time for a Rest?' message with a coffee cup icon appears in the instrument cluster.

New iPad® Docking Station

Coinciding with the debut of the new M-Class is the launch of the all new Mercedes-Benz iPad® Docking Station. With this new product, customers are able to utilize their own mobile entertainment. They now have the capability to watch movies, play music, view pictures, play games, surf the Internet, all from the convenience of their own iPad® without having to hold it in their hands while in transit.

The iPad® Docking Station holds the iPad® in place behind the headrests of the front seats, allowing rear occupants to view. For optimum viewing, the iPad® Docking Station can be rotated up to 90 degrees and be tilted, while being charged through the vehicle's electrical system. This product is a perfect fit for the Mercedes-Benz customer and will be available for most Mercedes-Benz passenger cars and Sport Útility Vehicles. This product will be available in September 2011.

The Mercedes-Benz Alabama Plant

Along with the R-Class and GL-Class, the M-Class sport utility vehicle is produced at the Mercedes-Benz plant in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, which began production in 1997 with the first-generation M-Class. Since 2001, more than $600 million has been invested to expand the facility for production of the three SÚV lines.

Source - Mercedes-Benz

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